Trapshooting is one specific form of clay target shooting. It is a game of movement, action, and split-second timing. It requires the shooters to break 4 1/4 inch “clay pigeons” which are hurled through the air at a speed of 42 mph, simulating the flight path of a bird fleeing a hunter. TCSL has two voice-actuated trap ranges as well as a comfortable heated clubhouse. We usually shoot sixteen-yard singles, but occasionally have handicap and doubles competitions. We shoot year-round.
Experienced and new shooters alike are welcome to use the Trap Range. You will be asked to sign in and to review TCSL safety rules before shooting. It helps if you have a basic understanding of how organized trap shooting works. Watching the process is a good primer, and trap committee members along with fellow trap shooters will be glad to answer your questions. We can arrange for new shooters to get started with basic instruction on the firing line. Of course, this offer is dependent on the availability of help at the range on that day. If you contact us in advance either at the range or by email to [email protected], a time can be worked out so there are no disappointments for personalized beginner instruction. TCSL also offers a structured NRA shotgun shooting class consisting of classroom and range instruction. Contact the Education Committee at [email protected] or call 734-429-9561 for more information.
- Hours: Every Sunday from noon to end of shooting (usually 4:00pm) • Check the TCSL club calendar for additional summer hours and special trap events
- Cost: Single Round (25 Targets): Members – $5.00 • Non-members – $5.00 • Juniors (18 and under) – $5.00 • Non-members must also pay a $5.00 daily range access fee
- Cost: Ten Round Shoot Card (250 targets): Members – $45
- Contact: Trap Chair
Trap Range Rules and Operation
All TCSL Club Rules apply to this range.
Safety is our first and last concern.
- Hearing and eye protection are required at all times on the Trap Range.
- Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction – pointed down at the ground or down range.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until your shotgun is in firing position and you are ready to call for the target. It is the shooters responsibility to ensure that no unintentional discharges occur.
- Keep the action open and the firearm unloaded, except when it is your turn to shoot.
- Load one shell at a time (two for doubles). See approved ammunition info below.
- Never change stations with a loaded gun. Before changing stations, the shotgun action must be open and empty. Keep the gun pointed at the ground as you walk to the next station.
- In case of gun or ammo malfunction do not leave the firing line. A trap committee member (the scorer) will come to you if you need assistance. In the event of an under-powered load, unload if necessary and clear any obstruction before chambering another shell.
- Shotgun racks are provided for your convenience to store your shotgun when not shooting. Semi-auto and pump action shotguns must have their actions open while on the racks. Break-open shotguns (double-barrel, over-and-under, and single-shot) may be closed while on the racks; however, chambers must be empty.
- Under no circumstances will alcohol or drugs be permitted on the firing line. Shooters may not consume alcohol and/or drugs before shooting.
- Members participate using a wide variety of shotguns. Pump action, semi-automatics, over and unders, side by side, and single shot shotguns may be used.
- Only shotguns of 12ga. or smaller may be used on the Trap Range.
- All firearms must be in good working order.
- Owners should be familiar with the assembly and operation of their shotgun before visiting the Trap Range.
- A target load can be defined as a 2-3/4 inch shell (except .410) with a maximum shot charge of 1-1/8 ounce of #7-1/2, #8, or #9 shot and muzzle velocity less than 1290 feet per second (FPS). This is a typical “3 DRAM” load.
- If a shot charge of 1 ounce is used, the muzzle velocity may be as high as 1325 FPS.
- If a shot charge of 7/8 ounce is used, the muzzle velocity may be as high as 1350 FPS.
- No load containing more than 1-1/8 ounces or any shot larger than #7-1/2 can be used. Shot charges are maximum and no charge may exceed the charge amount by more than 3%. #7 steel shot will be acceptable as long as velocity criteria are the same as for lead shot shells.
- Higher velocity sporting clay loads, hunting loads, and 3 inch or 3-1/2 inch magnum shells are not permitted.
- Tip: 2-3/4 inch,12 gauge shells with 1-1/8 oz of #8 shot and a 2-3/4 DRAM powder charge is the typical target load most TCSL Trap shooters choose.
- Note: Please plan ahead for your ammo needs as ammunition is not available at the range.
- Patterning of shotguns is allowed on Turkey Bay 2.
- Coffee is generally available for your convenience for a modest donation to the coffee fund. Members and their guests occasionally bring in snacks which are available to all.
- The Trap Range is operated by a committee of five two-person teams plus three substitutes who donate their time and labor to keep the TCSL Trap Range running smoothly. If you are inclined to volunteer your time on the Trap Range, contact the Trap Chair. E: [email protected]
Revised October 19, 2023